Port Townsend, WA – Organic Seed Alliance (OSA) will host a field day and training for farmers at Riverdog Farm on December 7, 2013, to share progress in our Northern California organic variety trials, which include over 30 varieties of red beets, Savoy spinach, and Nantes carrots. Participants will also learn simple techniques that will allow them to conduct useful, accurate variety trials on their own farms.

The varieties in the trial include well-known standard varieties as well as new varieties, all selected to perform well on organic farms. These trials are part of a larger variety trial effort evaluating over 90 vegetable varieties on eight organic farms across Northern California. Supported by Columbia Foundation and Gaia Fund, these trials are helping organic farmers identify varieties that are vigorous and resilient in organic systems, while having excellent appearance and flavor.

Data from these trails will be shared through a national database that houses organic variety trial results, and made widely available to help farmers choose the right varieties for their farms. You can find this data at http://varietytrials.eorganic.info/.

The trials are located east of Highway 16 on Shadow Valley Road in Guinda, California. The event starts at 1:00 p.m. and is free and open to the public. It will take place rain or shine and participants are encouraged to dress appropriately. Please RSVP by contacting Jared Zystro at 707-502-9984 or jared@seedalliance.org.

Organic Seed Alliance advances the ethical development and stewardship of the genetic resources of agricultural seed. Learn more at www.seedalliance.org.